1. Complete a thorough needs analysis so you know what you need to know about the student and exactly what they want.

2. Set a reasonable lesson rate. Students won’t pay over the odds for a lesson, they’ll just find somebody else.

3. Know your materials and what you’ll be teaching. There’s no way to successfully bluff in a one to one lesson!

4. Personalise as much as possible as this will mean a happy student!

5. Set reasonable goals and aims for both you and the student. Agree what’s achievable, not desirable.

6. Deal with potential problems as they arise. Don’t let them fester. Talk to the student and sort it out!

7. Know your student’s personality. Don’t say/bring in anything that could offend and use a sense of humour they don’t understand.  

8. Use authentic materials. The fresher, more contemporary and innovative it is, the better.

9. Be safe. Conduct private lessons and tuitions in a safe environment and tell someone where you’ll be.

10. Be patient. Not everyone will like your style or you! Bid farewell and move on!

1. Have fun. Children’s classes are about taking part and enjoying it yourself.

2. Be energetic. The students respond to your energy and the more energetic the class is, the more the students will respond to the activities.

3. Use lots of games, competitions and team work. Students thrive on points and games, Award prizes, points, and smiley faces!

4. Set boundaries from the very beginning. Decide expectations together and make a class poster to put on the back of the door so they don’t forget!

5. Make the classroom a familiar atmosphere. Stick students’ work up, ask for photographs and make a birthday calendar. They’ll be more comfortable in familiar surroundings.

6. Use reward systems. They will help encourage – and reward – achievements. And keep promises! If you say there is a prize at the end of it, make sure it materialises.

7. Don’t be their friend. As much as you want to be kind, approachable and friendly, keep the boundaries of teacher – student very clear otherwise they won’t listen to you!

8. Don't shout. Children respond better if you speak to them. Ask them to explain their actions rather than tell them off for it.

9. Be creative. Use new games, activities and craft ideas to keep them intrigued, curious and interested!

10. Experiment with new things. They may not work but at least you've tried something new. And if it doesn't work, the student will be none the wiser!